Perkins County, South Dakota Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Perkins County is located in South Dakota with a total population of 3,058. It is the 46th most populous county out of 66 in South Dakota. The county encompasses 2 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Perkins County is 43.6 years. This is 16% higher than the state median of 37.7 years. 13.5% of residents are 75 or older, suggesting a significant retirement-age population with implications for healthcare services and senior housing.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Perkins County is $65,455. This is 10% lower than the state median of $72,421. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 17% lower. The poverty rate stands at 11.8%. This is 2% lower than the state poverty rate of 12.0%. The unemployment rate is 3.5%. This is 17% higher than the state rate of 3.0%. The median home value is $105,900. Housing costs are 55% lower than the state median of $236,800. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.6x, Perkins County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 79.0% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 15% higher than the state average of 68.6%.

Race & Ethnicity

Perkins County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 94.0% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 0.9%. The Hispanic or Latino population (0.9%) is well below the state average of 4.6%. The Asian population (0.6%) is well below the state average of 1.4%.

Education

21.8% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 30% lower than the state rate of 31.1%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 92.8%.